tremors

One of the buildings in which I work is a testimony to the general crapness of 1960's architecture. While it is not quite as uninspired as some buildings of the same period, it is ugly and concrete, and was most likely designed by someone with a serious grudge against the university.

I've never felt them, but many people, especially on the top floor, have complained of tremors and swaying. It's something that you just don't expect in this geologically-stable part of the world.

So, by way of investigation, sensors were installed and monitored by an engineering company, and various surveys were undertaken to check the structural integrity of the building.

The reports recently came back. Apparently, the main company thinks the service life of the building can be extended with certain (expensive) remedial work. The subcontracors have a bleaker outlook. It appears the metal framework of the building is corroding, and their assesment can be summed up as: everybody out. Like now.

I think this may become a factor when they decide where to site a new GBP 600 k laboratory...